Louis Smith Demands Surgeon to Save Tattoo During Heart Transplant
- Louis Smith served as an Army veteran for over two decades, primarily in various regions including the Middle East.
- He underwent a heart transplant on New Year's Eve and requested his tattoo to be preserved during the procedure.
- Post-surgery, Smith encourages veterans to take their health seriously and seek necessary medical help.
Louis Smith, a 66-year-old Army veteran, underwent a heart transplant on New Year's Eve. He served his country for over two decades, primarily in the Middle East, South Korea, and Europe, and during the Gulf War, he led a missile platoon guarding aircraft. The tattoo that he insisted on preserving features a lyric from Frank Sinatra's 'My Way,' deeply connected to his father's influence during his childhood. The surgeon was able to align the tattoo correctly while performing the intricate heart transplant procedure, highlighting Smith's advocacy for his health and the importance of being proactive in medical care. Post-surgery, he emphasizes the significance of addressing health issues and encourages other veterans to seek help when needed.